Student Complaint and Grievance Process

International Islamic University of America — Effective Date: June 1, 2026

1. Purpose

International Islamic University of America (“IIU”) is committed to providing a fair, respectful, and academically sound environment for all students. This page describes the formal process by which students may raise complaints or grievances related to their academic experience, enrollment, or interactions with IIU faculty or staff.

IIU takes all complaints seriously and will investigate and respond to every formal grievance in good faith and within the timelines set out below.

2. Scope

This process applies to complaints related to:

  • Academic matters (grades, course content, instructor conduct, examination disputes)
  • Admissions and enrollment decisions
  • Tuition, fees, and refund disputes
  • Student records and transcripts
  • Discrimination, harassment, or misconduct by IIU staff or faculty
  • Quality of instruction or course delivery
  • Any other matter affecting a student’s rights or academic progress

This process does not apply to matters already subject to a separate appeals procedure (e.g., academic integrity violations under the Terms of Service).

3. Step 1 — Informal Resolution

Students are encouraged to first attempt to resolve concerns informally by contacting the relevant instructor or staff member directly. Many issues can be resolved quickly through direct communication.

  • How: Email the instructor or staff member involved, clearly describing the concern
  • Timeline: The instructor or staff member should respond within 10 business days

If the matter is not resolved informally, or if the student is uncomfortable approaching the person directly, the student may proceed to Step 2.

4. Step 2 — Formal Written Complaint

If informal resolution is unsuccessful or inappropriate, the student may submit a formal written complaint to IIU’s University Administration.

A. How to File

Send a written complaint by email to grievances@uislamic.org with the subject line: “Formal Grievance — [Your Name]”

The complaint should include:

  • Your full name and student ID (if applicable)
  • A clear description of the issue, including relevant dates and parties involved
  • Any supporting documentation (emails, screenshots, records)
  • The outcome you are seeking

B. Timeline

  • IIU will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within 5 business days
  • IIU will provide a written response and resolution decision within 30 business days of receipt
  • If additional time is needed, IIU will notify the student in writing with an estimated resolution date

5. Step 3 — Final Internal Appeal

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of Step 2, they may submit a written appeal to IIU’s senior administration within 15 business days of receiving the Step 2 response.

  • How: Email grievances@uislamic.org with subject line: “Grievance Appeal — [Your Name]”
  • Include: The original complaint, the Step 2 response, and your grounds for appeal
  • Timeline: Senior administration will issue a final written decision within 30 business days

The decision at Step 3 constitutes IIU’s final internal determination.

6. External Escalation

As IIU completes its accreditation and state authorization processes, students will have access to additional external escalation paths. This section will be updated accordingly. Students with unresolved concerns are encouraged to contact IIU directly at grievances@uislamic.org.

7. Non-Retaliation

IIU strictly prohibits retaliation against any student who files a complaint or grievance in good faith. No student will face adverse academic or enrollment consequences as a result of using this process. Any retaliation by IIU staff or faculty should itself be reported as a formal grievance under this policy.

8. Record Keeping

IIU maintains a confidential record of all formal grievances filed, the steps taken, and the outcomes reached. These records are retained for a minimum of five (5) years and are available for review by DEAC and other authorized bodies during accreditation reviews.

9. Contact

To file a formal grievance or ask questions about this process:

International Islamic University of America
232 E Front St, Plainfield, NJ 07060
Email: grievances@uislamic.org
Website: uislamic.org